They were the words I had longed to hear for so long. At the age of 39, having married later in life, I had heard only the negatives: “You’re too old; the risks are too high for you and the baby”, or “Perhaps you should consider adoption”, and so on. I soon grew to loathe the phrase, ‘advanced maternal age’.

But I established a motto that got me through many trials, tribulations and heartache: “I don’t believe that I won’t conceive!”

Sixteen weeks later, I was devastated

So, excitement doesn’t begin to describe how I felt when I heard the news. But, 16 weeks later, I miscarried and was devastated. Instead of sharing news of the pregnancy with family, we were telephoning them from the hospital before I was due to go in for surgery.

It took a while to heal both physically and emotionally. When I returned to work, people seemed quite comfortable judging me, with comments like, “You think she’d know better at her age”.

Then, in 2005, I received another call of my life. We were expecting once again. I was now 41.

I followed all the credible advice I could find, including eliminating all caffeine, including giving up my beloved chocolate, along with all fatty and fast-foods, and trans fats. I ate lots of dark green leafy veggies, bumped up my intake of calcium rich products, took prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, and exercised (primarily walking). Luckily, I had been a life-long non-smoker.

At the age of 41, I went into early labor

Over the next few months, I must have looked at my abdomen and my profile hundreds of times, eager to see a small bump. I felt so alive.

The pregnancy was smooth, and predictable. The announcement at work and to family members was, once again, met with shock and disbelief. One person even said, “I hope you know what you’re doing.”

At 33 weeks, at age 41, I went into early labor. Fifteen hours later, a tiny boy was born. How I had longed for that moment. And when it finally arrived, and I held my baby for the first time, I wept uncontrollably. I had never felt such joy.

Doctor advised us to try to conceive our 2nd child quickly

In July 2007, when I as 43, we welcomed another son into the family. The conception was 100% natural. I remember telling my doctor that we wanted a second baby and he said to try to conceive quickly because the chances of a successful pregnancy are highest in the first year following a pregnancy and delivery.

In the years that followed, we always felt that someone was missing from our family. I knew in my heart and soul that I wanted another child. We began to try to conceive. This time it proved far more difficult; 18 months went by and still no success.

We miscarried a child in 2009. Eventually, I underwent a series of tests to ensure that I was ovulating normally. The results came back positive. My obstetrician encouraged me to reduce my stress and relax. And I recalled my motto once again: “I don’t believe I won’t conceive”.

I gave birth again at 47, after a natural conception

At long last, in January 2011 we conceived out third child naturally. With our third child, we received some surprisingly kind and supportive comments. I guess the novelty had worn off.

In November 2011 when I was 47, I went into labor on my due date. Six hours later, after a very normal but fast labor, a healthy son was born.

While on the postpartum ward, I had the oddest experience: there was a stream of nurses peaking into my hospital room. After about the 8th one came in and then left again quickly, I listened at the door and heard them say: “She’s 47, can you believe it?”

Facing the pros and cons of being an “older” mom

Being an over-40 mom is a joy. There are so many positives. The boys are now 8 and 6 years old, and the youngest is 23 months. They keep me young. We lay in the grass in the backyard and study cloud formations; we ride our bicycles as a family every Saturday, travelling 25 km together; we go mountain climbing and hiking.

There is a stigma attached to being an older mom. People often laugh or sneer, and I do feel socially isolated quite often. I try to connect with other moms, but invariably they are 30 or under. Although we have children of similar ages, we have nothing else in common

I cherish every moment, every diaper, every tear of sadness or joy, and every scraped knee.

Yes, I am tired; but a wise person once said, ‘If as a parent you’re not tired at the end of the day, regardless of your age, you’re not doing it right.’

I can offer my children things that I could never have when I was half my age—financial security, a sense of being grounded in knowing who I am, and maturity.

On the negative front, I have given up my career for the moment. I had worked for 12 years as a senior manager in health care, with two university degrees. I rapidly learned that my former employer, while claiming to be family friendly, proved to be the reverse, and had no sympathy or understanding for my needs as an older mom.

Also, we have no family support. My husband works away for much of the time, so I am often single parenting. Ironically, our family views us as “older and wiser”, believing we don’t need help like young parents do.

Trying to conceive our 4th child naturally, at age 49

And so at 49, with 5 pregnancies, 2 miscarriages, and 3 births under my belt, we are trying for our 4th child. I know that the risks are also far greater, but perhaps that means that the rewards will be just as great.

My motto has changed: ‘I’m trying to believe that I will conceive”. Time will tell.

186 Responses to I Had 3 Babies Naturally After 40, and I’m Trying for Number 4!

Wow – congrats to you! I too got married later in life (worth the wait) at 40 and also had my daughter at 40 (only took 2 months of trying). Now, at 45, after 4 failed IUIs and 4 failed rounds of IVF, your story gives me hope. I cherish my soon-to-be 3 year old like the gift from God that she is to us – but I would love another, and to give her a sibling. Bless!

Can all of you over 40 moms tell me what age your husband was? My significant other is 58 and I’m concerned about the kids having aneuploidies like spina bifida and retardation. Have any of you had health children with a man that old?

Hi April! Thanks for your question. My husband is 51 and going back, he was 43, 45, and 49 when our three kids were conceived. You’re right – we researched the impact his age would have on conception and possible birth defects; we decided to take a leap of faith and proceed. I wish you well on your journey, knowing all good things will come your way.

If it helps. I was 40 and 42 at the time I conceived both children naturally. My husband was 49 and 51. We have two healthy children. I am 43 and my husband is 52 now. We have 5 month old and a 21 month old. Good luck.

Heather,
I am dieng inside. I never have given up. I turned fifty. No luck. I realize I had the wrong doctor. All I ever wanted was children. My husband kept making me wait so I could take care of his kids who? Abused of course. I rescued, I gave, I lost. Regret.
If you have ANY IDEAS FOR ME. Oh my gosh, gratitude wouldn’t suffice. I could care less about what people think of me. I hear adoption, egg donation. Uggg.
My email is ‌docgraf10@‍gmail.com (‌docgraf10 null@null ‍gmail NULL.com) My phone bumber 858 997 5084 or Todd, spouse. 858 232 5776. I work a lot.
Thank you for your story. I’m sooo happy for you.
By the way four miscarriages. The first, the day after our family laid my brother to rest.
Pleeeeeease call or right.
Again thank you, and enjoy those miracles. You deserve all good that comes to you no matter what people who aren’t you, or in your heart say. Wait until tragedy hits for them.
You and your family are very blessed.
Take care,
Susan

Hi Nicole! Thanks for your support and congratulations on your child and ongoing efforts! There’s a lot to be said for positive thinking – so I will keep positive thoughts for you on your journey. It’s worth it! I had my son talk to my tummy to ask for a baby – we had fun and boy was he thrilled when it happened!

My husband was born when his mom was 44 his dad 58.
His mom had 5 kids before marrying his dad. At 42 his mom lost a baby at birth.
I am 42 my husband is 55. He has no children I have 3. Two weeks ago we lost our first at 8 weeks. Praying to God and mother Mary that we will be blessed again. Doctor are so cruel or un positive.
..I live in Northwest Arkansas. Looking
for a doctor that is carding and upbeat
about the idea.
To answer your question. .my husband if fine two very smart two bachelor’s two minors.
I had my son at 31 I was told to abort him..that he would be extremely deformed ….he has great talent and blow the teachers away with his knowledge.
God is God doctor are book smart.
Your question
TYour

hi Nicole, I am also undergoing a similar journey. got my 1st beautiful gal at 2011 from ivf, trying for a second one as her sibling till now but still got no luck. I just turned 46 and I am not really OV every month regularly as before. just can pray everyday for God’s mercy again. good luck to you too!

Hi Bern! Wow – your friend is an inspiration! Congratulations on your third – a blessing! Thank you for your suggestion on trying Chinese herbs. I’m still lucky and remain hopeful because my cycles are incredibly regular, with no noticeable signs of menopause. I wish you well on your journey!

Hi Cat! Thank you for your comment. You’re right – trust is so important – trust in yourself, in your body, in your hope, in your dream, and yes dare I say it – in the medical community sometimes! LOL Best wishes to you on your journey!

Love your story, Heather! And your perseverance against the status quo to make a decision that is right and perfect for you and your family! I am looking forward to the day when older mothers are no longer stigmatized. I myself love being a mom! Wouldn’t trade it for anything, and I’m the 49 year old mom (it’s my bday today) of an 8-year-old and a 2 and a half year old. Good luck to you, Heather, on your journey to #4.

Hi Cindy! Thank you for your comment And a belated Happy B’day to you! Your kids are pretty much the same age as mine, and yes it’s just so wonderful. I always say that it’s truly a privilege mothering my boys. They teach me so much. I keep on hitting that message – we are competent, loving, life-giving, and driven. Love knows no age limit. Good luck to you and your family and enjoy your journey!

Hi Sammie! Thanks for your comment. Don’t give up! Keep on down that road and remember the impact that positive thinking has on our lives. As long as we have hope, then we have something to cling to. Trust in your body and in your hope. I wish you all the best on your journey! And by the way – I like to think that ‘advanced’ also means ‘better’ and ‘stronger’ so I say to the docs – ‘you bet I’m advanced and I wouldn’t have it any other way!’

Thank you so much for posting your story. You are my absolute inspiration.Like you I worked for many years and was able to achieve great success in my profession. Then at you young age of 42 I had my first (naturally) and became a stay at home mom. I’ve just turned 48 and my husband, my son and I so desperately want another. I congratulate you for pursuing what was right for you family despite any social stigma you might have endured. You really are my role model.

Hi Cheryl! Thanks for your comment! I’m delighted to hear that my story has inspired you! It’s an honor. It’s too bad that our working lives have taken a back seat, after so much effort and sweat to climb that ladder. But as I always say, I won’t get a ‘do over’ with my boys – it’s now or never. So job be darned! Keep on trusting in your hopes and dreams. Have your son talk to your tummy – I know that sounds funny but we did it and it was a bonding experience. And remember my stance that mind over matter works! Your body has the capability – never stop believing. And believe me – I continue to chip away at that dreadful social stigma. And when I was the winner at the elementary school’s field day Mother’s Race – the young mothers were surprised and shocked! And I lapped it up! Rock on! Best wishes on your journey! I hope to read about your future success on this web site soon!

Thank you so much for sharing your story. As the other ladies commented, it gives me hope. I had my first a month shy of my 38th birthday and would love to give my son a sibling. I am 42 years old now and will keep persevering.

Hi Rebecca! Thanks for your comment! As I’ve said in other comments – please don’t stop trying. Trust, trust, trust. You are the perfect age and great things await you and your family! It’s truly worth the blood, sweat and tears. I wish you well on your journey!

Oh I really hope that you can give your son a sibling. I hear of MANY women getting pregnant at 42. Make sure your really tracking your ovulation. I know exactly when mine comes every month, there is no missing it, read up on the signs to look for.

Love your story. I’m currently 48 and TTC my #6 child. I have 3 daughter from my first marriage. And an angel, and a 14 month old daughter from my current husband. I can relate on the fact how some people look at you cause you are older and pregnant but that didn’t make me feel bad cause like you said we are more mature and we know what we want.

Hi Mayela! Thanks for your comment! Wow – you are wonderful! Congratulations on your successes. Sounds like you are building a tremendous family. We mature moms are truly wonderful; let’s keep on hitting that message hard. I wish you well on your journey!

Hi Kirsten! Thanks for your comment! And thanks for your kind words. Yes my life is so wonderful I can’t imagine it any different! It is a privilege mothering my boys and I wake up every morning with such gratitude. All the best to you and thank you once again!

Hi Ladies,
It is great to hear stories like that but I would assume that you ladies have had menstruations, ovulations and hormones in the right range. Right? In my case I was thrown into early menopause by a great stress 4 years ago and I have not been able to recover. This year I have had only 2 periods. Based on my FSH and other hormones I do not think that anything will happen. Unless, you have stories to tell otherwise.(LOL)

Hi Barbara! Thanks for your comment! Yes my onset of menstruation was at 14. Then as I aged, and stabilized, by cycles and hormones became regular and stable, and thankfully remain extremely regular and predictable. I’m saddened to hear your story of your early onset on menopause. But I knew of a gal who had a similar story, and worked closely with a Chinese Herbalist, and also a Foot Reflexologist, and was able to achieve some correction and eventually conceived a child. She was able to have one child and no more, but that child was seen as a blessing by her and her family. So I share this with you in the hopes that it will give you some more hope. Remember that without hope, we have nothing. I hope to read that you have success soon! I wish you well on your journey!

Your story is so inspiring! Congratulations in your beautiful family and good luck with number 4!!
I am 40 years old and pregnant with my second child (yayyy!!!!), I had my first when I was 37, when she was 2 we started TTC#2 and when we finally conceived it turned out to be an ectopic pregnancy, it was so sad, and I was so worried it was going to be harder to conceive after that, but 5 months later we started TTC again and got pregnant in the very first month!! I know we were very lucky and I cant be thankfull enough. I am now 14 weeks pregnant and we already know is a baby boy! I am praying the rest of my pregnancy goes ok and we welcome out little man next june… and yes while I was trying to conceive this baby I have had people judging me, saying that I am too old, that I already have one child, that it is too risky to have another child at this age… gosh!!! I hate it!! like we have no right to have the family we want. Dont listen to them ladies, nobody has the right to stop us from having the joy a daughter/son brings to ones life. Good luck to all of you out there!

Hi Maria! Thanks for your comment! And thanks for your kind words; I feel very blessed to have my family and I’m so hopeful that #4 will happen soon! I feel so happy for you about your success, and also saddened to learn of your ectopic pregnancy. I believe that you have a child waiting to meet you someday, just as I have my 2 lost babies waiting to meet me someday. People said to me, when we were trying for #2 and later, #3, ‘can’t you just be happy for the one boy?’ I really wanted to scream at them, but decorum took over. I am so hopeful for you that your pregnancy proceeds normally and is ‘uneventful’ as the medical community likes to say. I hope to hear good news from you on this site! I wish you well on your journey!

Congrats on being pregnant, may I ask have alot of people said rude comments or just a few? Were they from strangers or close friends and family? Also has your doctor said if she has alot of women around your age? I am 38.5 and want to get pregnant asap. I already have two kids and want more.

I can’t wait to see pictures of baby #4. And please let us know how friends, family and nurses respond when you deliver ;-). You were fortunate that the nurses actually came into your room after giving birth. None of the nurses wanted to come into my room after I had my son at 51. I think they were afraid I’d have cardiac arrest and they wouldn’t remember how to do CPR. And I can relate to friends and family not wanting to help out. My sister keeps saying she doesn’t remember so she has no advice to offer from her experience.

Thank you for sharing your story! I had my son at 46, conceived with IVF and when I was seen at 36 weeks in the hospital by a new OB-GYN, he said women my age could only have a baby with the help of modern medicine. Although I had used modern medicine, I couldn’t believe that an ob-gyn could be so ignorant as to think it was not possible to have conceived naturally at 46!

Hi Susan! Thanks for your comment! That comment from the OBGYN is insulting and makes me want to scream! Makes me wonder what they learn in med school! Congratulations on your child and family. That comment, and so many others over the years, makes me push even harder to have success with conceiving #4! We mature moms should not be underestimated! I wish you well on your journey!

Hi Susan, convratulations!!!! May I ask you whether you have conceived using your own eggs? I’d like to try with my own eggs but my re said after 45 I have to use egg donor. My husband is against egg donor :(. I’ve just turned 46, had my first one at 43 naturally.

Hi Lylas! Thanks for your comment! I kind of giggled at your comment about having a cardiac arrest and the absence of nurses! I think sometimes they just don’t know what to do with us! Or what to say! Good for you – 51! There’s hope for me – I turn 50 in July. I remain hopeful that I will have success conceiving #4 soon. While it is very upsetting and disappointing about family not helping, I try to tell myself that it’s their loss because they are losing out on wonderful times and memories with a little person who only asks to be loved. Keep on persevering and I wish you well on your journey!

Hi Sheri! Thanks for your story! Thank you for your kind words. As I said in another comment, I truly cherish every moment and am profoundly grateful for the privilege of mothering my boys. I’ve seen a lot of life at this point, and understand how important it is to cherish, cherish, cherish. I wish you well on your journey!

It is very encouraged to know your story, Heather. It is also sad to know there are still people in this world treat old moms like this. I got my girl (by natural) at age 42, she is 5 now. (I got pretty much grey hair afterwards.) One day I had walked in to a elematery school while the staff asked if I am the grandmom. When I corrected her that I am the mom, she gave me a face. Lucky I moved out of that school zone and never go back to that school.

Most of my friends and families did tell me they forgot their nursery experience. I had to read books to gain experience, and some of those experience doesn’t apply to my current location. I felt isolated, and afraied to get another child.

I also realized the younger mom does get more attention since people feel they are “young and none experienced”. Well, we are “experienced but non-professional for nusery business”, people don’t seem to get that part. That’s why we have this website….to help each other, and support each other. We are not alone.

I believe people’s body has much more potential. We all know to live longer than 70 years old was kind of impossible in centries ago. But situation changes. Maybe in one of the future days, The 50 years old women to be natural concieved and give birth won’t be a news.

Hi Jennifer! Thanks for your comment! I was saddened to hear of your experiences at the school. I am very involved in my children’s school also and just want to say to you – just keep on going. It doesn’t matter what people say, as long as you are building memories with your child. And I also agree with you – it doesn’t matter what the age is – we all need help and support sometimes. And support can come from anywhere – this web site included! We mature moms are poised to take over the world! LOL!! 🙂 I wish you well on your journey!

Heather,
Thanks so much for sharing your experience and energy – three children, and trying again! I delivered my first and only wonderful daughter at 52 years and now she is three and lively. My husband and I adore her greatly, and are glad our friends think it’s great, as did my AB O&G specialist. I was considered high-risk by age, but nothing else.
If you ever wish to start an AB support group, I’m in!
all the best in your quest.
Janet

Hi Janet! Thanks for your comment! Wow you are an inspiration! 52! Well done. It’s so wonderful that you have supportive friends. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement. I continue to forge ahead, trusting in my heart, soul, and body. Love the idea of an AB support group! I’ll put some thought into it. Until then, I wish you well in your journey along with your family!

Hi Elle! Thanks for your comment and question! I was one of the lucky ones, in that all my pregnancies were with my own eggs. No medical / scientific interventions at all. I struggled to conceive our third son and so underwent a series of tests to check on the viability of my eggs. I was super relieved and excited to learn that they were still viable. Having said all this, I do believe that had I not been as lucky as I have been, I would have opted for assistance through IVF or egg donation. My drive to be a mother was and is so strong, I would have stopped at nothing to make the dream a reality. I just want to add that I hope the very best for you, and please don’t be too hard on yourself. We make our decisions and choices at the time with the information we have available to us at that time. Hind sight is tough to live with. All the best to you on your journey! It’s not too late!

Hi.
I AM 50 AND WOULD LIKE TO TRY FOR A CHILD. I get the same thing. High risk but my doctor will be by my side after I go through the spill on risks. I am in great shape and still having periods. It sounds so crazy but I really desire it. Im trying to not feel stupid and crazy to feel this way. I have two beautiful boys who are 21 & 18. They are great and I would love to do again. Help me feel better.

Did you have any help getting pregnant or naturally I had daughter now 4 at 41 and my son at 43 and now just 46 have been trying for 12 months not even a pregnancy:-/ I have normal periods I ovulate but nothing . I take vitamins and asprin as did to stay pregnant with first 2 as 4 mc before them Any ideas help
Please

Hi Janet & Heather,
Love your enthusiasm! Anyone who wants to start a support or social group for women in their area who are over 40 and TTC or have already become moms, can do so here on this website. Just go to our social groups page to see the existing groups, then email me with your request. Happy to oblige! https://achildafter40.com/moms-over-40-social-groups/

You are my new heroine!! I am 45, I conceived naturally my first time at 38, and miscarried. It was so devastating. I was referred to an RE for evaluation and treatment to try again, and I conceived during the clomid challenge (see, my eggs were okay!), and, this time, I gave birth to my beautiful, big (9 lbs, 4 oz.), healthy boy at age 40.

My boy really wants a baby sister, so we started trying again last year.I conceived right away–and miscarried right away. Nothing since, but my cycles are regular as rain.

Hi Heather! I love your story and your positive thinking! After experiencing six years of infertility, I gave conceived naturally and gave birth to my first baby at age 27, second at age 31, third at age 34, fourth at age 39 and fifth at age 41. Sadly, I recently miscarried baby #6 at 12 wks at age 43. We have been ttc for 4 cycles now since the miscarriage and I’m feeling discouraged. I usually work out and am in such great health, but since the miscarriage I can’t even drag myself to the gym. I want to regain my positivity, but it’s so hard going against the medical community and family that think I’m too old and that we have enough already! My dh is 7 years younger than me and had a vasectomy after baby #5 but the procedure didn’t work! We really felt that another was in our future..but now I’m just not sure. Hopefully reading your story will be the pick me up that I need! Thank you. : )

Hi Tracy! Thanks for your comment! Wow you have a lovely large family, and congratulations on your goal of expanding it further! I’m sorry for you about your miscarriage; my two were heart-wrenching. I would say that if your husband’s vasectomy failed, then it is most definitely a sign that you have success coming your way. The timing will happen when it’s meant to, so in the meantime, I would strongly encourage you to remain positive and trust that it will happen. As for negative comments, I get them all the time too, and yet I continue to try to number 4 even though I will be 50 when the child is born. I DON’T CARE. In fact, to my family and friends who choose to ridicule and judge me, I say to them, “as you don’t help us with your time or your money, then you are not in a position to criticize and your opinions don’t matter”. That shuts them up pretty fast. I will close by saying, please don’t be too hard on yourself; we all heal at different rates and it sounds like your miscarriage is still relatively recent; remember that too much exercise can be tough on our cycles too; and I wish you the very best on your journey!

Hi Carissa! Thanks for your comment and kind words! And I’m sending a cheer for your eggs!!! I can completely understand the drive and desire for another child – even from your son! Congratulations on your success – your son – and I want to say, keep trying! It’s all worth it. Every experience along the way. They make us who we are. Yes, miscarriages are horribly traumatizing; but for me, I do believe that one day, I will meet my ‘angels’ – the children we lost along the way. So, keep on truckin’ as they say. Great that your cycles are so regular. Mine too, as I mentioned in a previous reply. However, having said that, I have an appointment next week; I need to advocate for another round of testing for myself, to check on the viability of my eggs. We have been trying for some time for #4, and at my age of 49, I’m hopeful that the results will come back positive, just as they did in 2011, when we went on to have our third son with my own egg. So, time does march on, but I believe we have to march with it, and do everything in our power to make our dreams our reality. I hope to read a successful story from you soon, on this site. And I wish you tremendous success on your journey!

Thank you for sharing your personal story and I am so happy for you that you have been able to have your children. My heart goes out to you that you have felt some isolation and have had to deal with a few comments. People can be so rude.

Can I ask did the nurses coming in and out of your room just to get a peak at you, did that happen only with your last baby? Or did it happen with the others too? I am going to try for a baby and would be 39.5 and am wondering if the nurses will be shocked and doing that to me too. I do look young for my age, but they would see my age on the chart.

I had my two kids at 30 and 32 and plan to have more and I am 38. I am sure you could find stuff in common with younger moms, its not about age, its about the person and what there interests are. And yes interests can be the same at any age. I happen to love decor and reading blogs and taking my kids to do fun things, also we love doing road trips etc. Anyone at any age can do those things. I guess my point is that women love finding support and good friends and age is relative in that. Anyway I admire you because you have a thick skin, your not letting anyone who might judge you, get in the way of the happiness of your family.

Hi CC! Thanks for your comment! Well I guess I would say that the nurses coming into the room did happen with each delivery, but it got more pronounced the older I got. I didn’t bother me at all, in fact I found it quite amusing. I chose to take it as a compliment because I too look far younger than my years! I would say to not worry about it and proceed, because life is too short to worry about what others think! Thank you for the compliment, and I agree that we need to enjoy life, and seek out opportunities to make life joyous and meaningful. I always tell myself that I absolutely will not let the silly comments or viewpoints of others, cause my children to miss out on life’s special moments. I try to not let that stuff bother me; it will always be there, and as I age, perhaps it will be more pronounced; who cares! I wish you tremendous luck in your journey!

While I am 38, I cannot conceive naturally since I lost 3 babies through ectopic in my early 20s. Oh how I want a baby more than anything in this life. (I feel so empty and incomplete) I also wasted over 6 years with a man who even watched me go through the testing for in vitro only to learn he never had any intentions on paying. Wasted precious time and now alone (yes, I left him) I want nothing more than to do this, even if it means a donor. However, the $ situation is the problem and our marriage has now left me in financial ruin. I haven’t given up hope. Please pray for me. But I cried tears of joy reading your story. God bless you and your family. You deserve every minute of happiness and thanks for sharing that personal side with the world. ~Crystal

Hi Crystal! Thanks for your comment! Boy, I just ache for you. I can’t even for one moment, begin to know what you are going through. I would say that even though you are alone now, you are likely stronger and better off. Everything happens for a reason. I’m so sorry about the ectopic pregnancies and that they left you unable to conceive. You say that the only option left is the donor route. You may be right, and yes it’s expensive, but shop around. Keep on trusting, keep on driving and pushing forward, keep on asking questions and networking, keep on staying healthy physically and emotionally, and keep on believing! I believe that there is someone waiting to unite with you and plunge you deep into a new relationship – that of mother and child! I have and will continue to pray for you and I trust and believe that your dream will come true. I wish you the ultimate in happiness and joy as you travel along in your journey; you are a young 38 and have A LOT OF YEARS left to realize your dream!

Thank you for sharing your experience. I am both happy for you and your family, and encouraged by your story. I know that everyone’s body is different but I find your story nonetheless encouraging.

I’m 45 and have not generally been overly preoccupied with having children. I’ve been married for 19 years (separated now for 2 of those years). When my husband told me years ago that he didn’t want to have any more children (beyond the three daughters he already had), I sort of contented myself with that reality. I also have long been the “mother” to my family (including my mom and siblings and now niece and nephew), so I sort of rationalized all these years that I was living out my maternal instincts anyway.

But two recent “baby cases” — two good friends who are expecting in March, and then another who recently gave birth — are causing me to reflect on whether I made the right choice to just “be okay” with my husband’s position against having another child.

AND … I wasn’t smart enough to freeze my eggs in my 30s, which I’m now learning is what I should’ve done to give myself the best shot of so-called “late motherhood.”

That’s on my mind. And frankly, it has been making me sad. Maybe it’s the New Year, too. Lots to ponder about what I hope to experience this year. And in the years to come.

But as a separated woman in her mid-40s, I am finding it quite the struggle to stay encouraged. And as someone who has spent her entire life overcoming obstacles, I cringe at the idea that I may have waited too long to have a fighting chance here. I have been kicking myself lately for not knowing more about freezing eggs in my 30s.

Hi Gina! Thanks for your comment! Thank you for sharing your feelings and your worries. Your situation is so different from mine, I wish I had something wise to say. It sounds like you have a very full life, but the ‘what ifs’ are rearing their ugly heads. I don’t think that you are being fair to yourself by stating that you ‘weren’t smart enough’ because you didn’t freeze your eggs years earlier. We can’t knock ourselves down, but rather use it as momentum for pushing forward to turn a dream into reality. I understand the drive, the incredible urge to attain the end goal. I know it’s tough to witness other people experiencing new chapters in their lives – I resented it for so long wondering why it wasn’t happening for me. But I found that by keeping my eye on the ‘prize’, it kept me motivated. I want to say that it’s not too late. Your eggs may still be viable. I’m sure you have thought about the various options (including sperm donors). As you say, you have overcome so much, and I believe this situation can also be overcome. Remember the importance of trusting yourself because you know what the right choice is. Be kind, good and fair to yourself – and forge ahead. I truly do wish the very best for you and your journey.

Thanks so much for your encouragement to older moms and for being strong enough to ignore negative and insensitive (and ignorant) comments from some others in your life. I am 42, having gotten married at 40 and had my first beautiful baby at 41. The social isolation is tough to deal with, though it’s possible I feel this way just because of the town I live in. My husband wants another, I’m not sure I do. But if it happens, I would love another child and I would have to be more proactive about looking for more support and community (which I’ll soon be doing anyway with my 18 month old).

Hi Amy! Thanks for your comment! Yes it can be tough to find that support; I continue to seek it out! It really is an ongoing process. Going online has been wonderful! I would say that we need to be true to ourselves, our children, and our needs; and in so doing, we encounter people who are true in these respects also. Then it’s a good fit! I would say that if you did have another child, your current one would love a sibling! I would also like to say, please don’t let your current feelings of social isolation deprive you of a wonderful future; everything always works out the way it’s supposed to, so love your life and trust in it; GO FOR IT!

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and I’m sure that you will be blessed more of doing it. Congratulations of having 3 children in your late 40’s and you know what, I get jealous sometimes if someone had thier baby in thier late 40’s and I still don’t have mine. I am already 45 now and still working out and hoping to have a baby even one. I’ve been trying to conceive for almost 16 years but until now still hoping especially that I am really inspired your story. Please give me some tips and advice what Im going to do to boost my fertility aside of eating green leafy vegetables. Thank you very much and God bless you more!

Hi Lunesa! Thanks for your comment! I would say, please don’t be too hard on yourself; as I have said in so many comments included herein, trusting in yourself and the future is critical. In terms of advice, I was and continue to be, VERY CAREFUL not to consume caffeine whatsoever. I researched where caffeine was hiding, in which foods and beverages, and completely eliminated them all. I also was and continue to be, diligent to take a good quality prenatal vitamin with folic acid. Yes dark green leafy veggies are a regular in my diet, too! I avoid all artificial sweeteners, never drink diet sodas, and read all labels to eat as naturally as possible. I try to eat foods with ingredients that I can actually pronounce! I avoid all trans fats, including fried foods in food courts. And in terms of exercise, less is more. I know that sounds weird, but research showed me that too much of it could actually negatively affect my cycles so I chose to walk everyday and that was it. So, after all this, I can say that I continue to follow all these tips while trying to conceive our 4th child. I do believe that following all of this helped us succeed thus far. I would also suggest that, if you have not done so already, have a thorough physical and advocate for yourself; tell the doctor what your goal is. I have had to do this several times, including several weeks ago when I asked for blood work to be done to check on my female hormones (FSH etc). The results told me that my levels are still thankfully in normal range and theoretically, pregnancy is still possible even at my age of 49. I’m not premenopausal yet! So I found that lots of research (credible sources) and advocating for myself has helped. Good luck! I wish you tremendous success on your journey!

Lunessa, don’t be hard on yourself. I will tell you something. Mexican doctors in the old days would say that most infertile couple have a fertile cycle after ten or years together. In your case you must be in that cycle as you have been with your husband for 16 yrs. So have faith. If faith moves mountains of course it moves sperms and eggs.

I had a couple of aunts and uncle and a few friends that were worn after a decade and x years after getting married.

What an inspiring story! I just turned 44 and my husband is 55. We have been TTC on and off for the last 3 years. We are making our goal to have our bundle of joy this year. We believe that it is possible. We pretty much adhere to a clean diet for the most part; however I drink tea and hubby about 2 cups of coffee daily. Any dietary recommendations or suggestions to prepare our bodies?

Hi Maggie! Thanks for your comment! I would say please read the comments in my reply to Lunesa above, for dietary and lifestyle suggestions and tips. I would also respectfully suggest that perhaps, if you have not done so already, have your husband undergo a sperm count. You can ask your family doctor for information on this. As he is 55, I believe it’s important to get a thorough picture on the health of the partner as well as oneself. As for caffeine, it’s a killer in more ways than one! Once it is entirely eliminated for the diet (yes even tea and hubby’s coffee), it can take weeks for traces of it to be out of the system; and caffeine negatively affects conception. Research also is clear about the clothing choices of men, and the health of their sperm. Boxers are better! And finally, try to eliminate stress. People say it’s not possible, but in reality, the calmer we are in trying to achieve conception, the better the chances. Don’t obsess, don’t be self-critical, and do trust and love the journey! I do wish you the best on yours!

Thanks Heather for your great story. We are TTC for our second. I’ve just turned 45 and I have to say, hearing all the stuff about older moms, mature moms, is she crazy, how old are you going to be when your child is 20 – blah blah blah… it’s really hard to dismiss the naysayers but if it’s a dream and a longing in your heart – then more power to all of us. And who cares? we are the ones living our lives and if having children now is right for us then that’s all it is. Nothing more. nothing less. The media just perpetuates it all and it drives me crazy some times. thanks for all the positives.

Hi Arlene! Thanks for your comment! I shared some thoughts on the naysayers in an earlier reply to Tracy, which you might find interesting. In addition, I would say, that we have our children when we are meant to, period. And it always will be right. That’s it. WE ARE EXCELLENT PARENTS. We made informed choices and as a result, we are living the lives we chose. All the best to you as you strive for number two; I wish you much joy and happiness on your journey!

You have given me such hope! I am 44 and currently 5w4d pregnant. This is my 6th pregnancy with no live births and I am keeping my fingers crossed that this is “the one”. I saw and RE after my last blighted ovum and he told me that I’d be more likely to win the lottery without buying a ticket than getting pregnant again and giving birth. It would be the cherry on the top if I could send him a picture of me holding my bundle in September. Thank you again for sharing and offering hope 🙂

Hi Christine! Thanks for your comment! WOW – I’m so happy for you and I pray that this one will continue normally and that you will be blessed with a bouncing bundle of joy! You’ve been through so much! I know from all my years and everything I have been through, that there are medications to help to fight off miscarriages but of course, if the ovum is blighted, then the fetus is not viable anyway. I also know that there are certain medical tests and procedures to check on the quality and quantity of eggs, as well as the basic blood work to assess our female reproductive hormones (FSH etc) which I regularly undergo. In addition, my husband gets his sperm count checked, which also checks not only the count but also the motility. Just some food for thought. It may also help to have medical support from someone who is actually supportive, and not cold and calculating. As you know from my blog, I had a couple of miscarriages; I truly believe that one day I will meet those little angels and we will be together again. I believe that they were and are watching over me and my family, and were pivotal in our eventual conception success. A lot of people find that theory to be weird, but then they don’t walk in my shoes. I hope to read of your success, on this site, and I truly do wish to much joy and success on your journey!

Hi Heather, i gave birth to my 5th boy at 41yrs and my long awaited baby girl at 45yrs after conceiving naturally. I would love to try for another, but was apprehensive until reading your story and that of the other mums. Thank you for sharing x

Heather, thank you for sharing your story and for inspiring the other lucky women here to share theirs.

I’m 43, had 2 miscarriages before our one healthy child, conceived naturally at 40 born at 41. I’ve had 3 more miscarriages and a chemical pregnancy this month after my one and likely only IVF. I see an acupuncturist and take Chinese herbs and a gob of supplements and am praying for another Miracle baby but was losing all hope. Reading your and others’ successes here have given me something to think about and reason to restore my faith and renew my hope. Thank you and all the best with your beautiful family.

Good morning. I just wondered if you had any concerns about the testing that you had to endure during pregnancy. I am 36 and was called today re: higher than average test results for Down Syndrome (2 percent chance)…they make it seem so dire. Trying to stay positive but extremely nervous…next ultrasound is not for two weeks. I am 17 weeks.

Hi Michele! Thanks for your comment! Yes I had all the tests and all the negative comments etc. With a 2% chance of Downs, I would say that means a 98% chance of no Downs! Go ahead and proceed and along the way you will feel so empowered and positive. Don’t let the negative nellies out there, deter you. Being nervous is understandable, but remember that statistics can be spun in many directions. Keep the dream alive. I wish you so much luck and success on your journey!

Hi. I always come to this site when i’m feeling low, and your story is just incredible! I am 44, had my first at 41 – natually concieved, a whopping 4kilos and an amazing little boy! We didnt start trying again till he was 15 months, and have had one pregnancy (lost at 8 weeks), (a year ago) and poss a few very early miscarriages of only a few days. We are both in good health, my husband is 5 years younger than i, and we just SO want this to happen again for our family – I know exactly what you mean when you say it feels like someone is missing from our family – even our son said, randomly ‘mummy just needs another one of these’ pointing to himself! We are temperature charting daily, using a sensor that you wear and upload the bbt. We have had very negative encounters with fertility clinics. I got my measurements – yes, slightly high fsh, low amh (but not that bad)! but were told we needed to go the donor route, no-one would countenance using my own eggs for IVF so we are now steering clear of any medical help and just feel so alone with our struggle. …May I borrow your mantra? Thanks again for the inspiration! somewhere I so know that this is doable!

Hi Eva! Thanks so much for your comment! YES!! Use my mantra by all means! I’m so glad that my story has given you some encouragement. That’s lovely to hear what your son said – you see – he knows something. I believe that. I’m glad that you had your hormones investigated. I did too once again recently, to find out that my levels are perfect, with no sign of menopause. So at 49, we are continuing to try to conceive. Tracking my bbt never worked well so I continue to track my cervical mucus, which has never failed me before! I know that sometimes it does feel like a ‘struggle’ but please try to forge ahead in spite of all the negative nellies and comments. I have never pursued the fertility clinic route, because they are just not understanding. We made the decision long ago, that we would push through it all on our own, knowing and trusting in ourselves and our beliefs. I would suggest that you search for an understanding and supportive OB/GYN, and then undertake all the available testing. Get a clear picture about your health, your levels, the patency of your fallopian tubes etc etc etc. A supportive OB/GYN will work with you towards your end goal. Keep the dream alive and know that your eggs are NOT too old. It is very doable! Continue to seek support online and understand that you are not alone. Your son is behind you, as is your husband. With that kind of support, how can you go wrong! I truly do wish you the very best on your journey and trust that we will read positive news on this site in the near future! All the best.

Congratulations and Best Wishes to you :-). I was so encouraged when I read your story. I am 44yrs old and have been actively trying for over a year. We had all the tests done (FSH, Semen analysis, etc). My FSH level was high on day 3 (12.7), but I was told that this number could change from month to month. I was diagnosed with “diminished ovarian reserve”. I have since then changed my diet, lost 25 pounds and decreased my stress levels. I continue to think positive and pray for my little one. Any suggestions for me (smile)?

HI HEATHER,
READING YOUR STORY INSPIRED ME, TO NEVER GIVE UP.I AM 43 FOUND OUT THAT I WAS PREGNANT. BUT @6WEEKS I MC. VERY HEART BROKEN. I WOULD LOVE TO TRY AGAIN BUT I READ SO MANY STORY ON WOMEN OVER 40 GO THROUGH 2 TO 3 MISCARRIGES BEFORE THEY ARE LUCKY. I”VE ALSO WAS TOLD YOU CAN CONCEIVE QUICK AFTER A MC. I”M JUST CURIOUS HAS ANYONE KNOWN TO HAVE DONE THIS.

I really hope you can provide me with some advice. I’ve recently turned 48 and I’ve always had vaginismus but this didn’t prevent me trying to get pregnant when I was 45. I tried a long time to overcome the vaginismus and eventually had to try and get pregnant with diy insemination. I became pregnant twice at the age of 45 and miscarried on both occasions. I tried to get pregnant after the miscarriages but it didn’t happen and I stopped trying about a year ago. Thing is, I thought I would be able to cope not having children but I realise now how depressed I am and I know that I really would like a child. I’ve always believed that I would be a good parent because I would appreciate them so much and would give them plenty of time. Is there any hope now at my age to have a child? I really don’t want to give up, please can someone give some advice that will help me to know what to do. I’m worried that I’m too old, what should I do? I wish I had overcome my problem so that I could have tried to get pregnant sooner but I left it until I was in my 40’s to try.

Hi AT, I noticed your post and even though I’m responding almost a year late, I still want to share something with you. I too suffered with vaginismus. I was a virgin when I married after 30 and experienced not only the physical pain but the emotional pain and discouragement. I’m not sure what you have tried in order to overcome vaginismus, but I would like to recommend the kit from vaginismus.com if you haven’t already given that a try.

More than anything though, I firmly believe that letting my registered massage therapist/osteopath know my dilemma years ago and what he did to help me was a huge part of achieving ultimate success!!! He performed an external (nothing inserted) exercise to release my pelvic floor muscles and it made SUCH A DIFFERENCE!! Now intercourse was not only “normal” it was easy and enjoyable! After about six months I had a little relapse and I just booked an appointment with him again and he did the same pelvic floor release and I have been fine ever since!!

I know every woman who deals with vaginismus has a different story, but I couldn’t read your post without writing you about what worked for me. Maybe this could help you too with not only your vaginismus but also you ttc.

Hi Heather,
Thank you so much for posting. This is so encouraging to hear! I’m 38 and started TTC just this month. A few weeks ago, I was told that I had a high FSH, a low egg reserve, had a “very low chance of concieving” and was given the donor egg speech. This was really shocking because my periods are still pretty regular and I have no other symptoms of menopause other then some hair thinning.

I started reading over 40 blogs because I assumed the grim news from the doctor meant my body is “functioning at an older age”.

Thank you for sharing your inspiring story! I really needed the encouragement after reading all the doom and gloom!

As a friend of mine put it, “Our great grandparents had 10 or 15 children or more. Do you think they had them all in their 20s?”

I’m so encouraged by all of your posts. My best friend had her first child at 41 and is pregnant with her third at 44 all of them naturally conceived.
I have recently been trying to conceive. I am 44 and my partner and I are very very optimistic.
Will keep you all posted as I take this leap of faith.
May all of our hearts desires come true. Good luck ladies.

Hi, your story is a lovely one and I am very happy for you 🙂 I am fifty and would dearly love to have a child with my much younger husband.. a natural conception if possible, I still have monthly regular periods and no symptoms of menopause… Any advise would be so appreciated

I feel for all the older moms and the ones who are still trying. I too have had the looks, the comments, and judging of myself for having a child after 40 and closer to 50.I used to get so angry and disgusted at people. Over time I have learned to ignore their ignorance and enjoy my life and my children.Good luck to all of you and future older moms!

Heather,
Your story has inspired me. Thank you. I am 45 and my husband and I have 7 kids ages 26 to 2. My last was when I was 42. My older daughters each had babies so I have 2 grandkids! Now I rsalize I really want another child. It is much more difficult this time. My obgyn was nice but frankly a bit sceptical thst I would conceive. Said it was egg quality. He did give me a prescrip. For 6 cycles of Clomid if I choose to try. I am using ovulation kits and taking vitamins. I need to try and be patient and positive rather than the control freak! I am not ready to give up yet. My periods used to be 28 days…….for most of my life. Last year they began to go from 25 days to 35 days and in between. But I am still ovulating at least 80% of the time. We will keep on trying. Thanks again for sharing your experiences. We love our big family!

Hi Heather and Brigid, I was delighted to hear your stories!
I’m 48 pushing 49 and have had a couple of miscarriages and a small amount of fertility treatment. I decided against the fertility treatment as it messed up my cycles and have been trying to improve my health with chinese herbs, diet and exercise. Surprise, suprise, my cycles are back to better than they were before the treatment. Unfortunately most of my problems have been due to male factor, hubby is diabetic, will not eat properly and drinks far too much alcohol. He just can’t see the connection between what he puts in himself and how his body is. I’m still working very hard at it, I have very regular cycles and I feel I can do it. Working at hubby is more of an uphill struggle! Thanks for your stories, they are an inspiration.

Dear Heather,
Thanks for your great comments…You are a truth inspiration to me at this moment that I am trying to conceive.
I will be 45 in May 21. I have a daughter 11 years old and I am praying for another miracle and a second chance from God. I keep praying and hoping everyday.

Hi Heather! I just found your site – your story has given me great hope and inspiration. I’m 41 and have been trying for 3 years, now looking at IVF but aware that my chances are low.
I have been trying to keep positive and your motto has given me a good boost!

Hi everyone!
Believe me it’s so comforting to read all this. I have three kids, my third was born when I was 34 years. A year after only I stopped using contraceptives and wanted to have my fourth child. I will be 40 this year and still haven’t conceived! May be because I am over weight or I don’t know what! But after reading all of this I still find hope in my heart that may be I will also conceive. Hoping for the best everyday!

I am so happy I came upon this site.I am a 47 year old mom of a 28 year old daughter and a 7 year old son .My husband and I are praying for another child.After reading all of these stories I have found hope and encouragement.I am also happy that there are other women out there like myself. Will keep you posted.

I’m so glad that I found this website and there are other women out here that I can find inspiration and support from. I am 44 years old and have a 22 year old from a previous relationship. I met my soul mate 2 years ago and we have had 2 pregnancies naturally and both were miscarriages. I’m just devastated. With my last pregnancy, I was 9 weeks along and after seeing the ultrasound and being told everything looked normal, I was devasted when we lost the baby. Both times, I had to go to emergency and have a d&c. It was physically and emotionally so brutal. For so long it was just myself and my son and when I found my fiance’ it all seemed meant to be. To think that we could have a child in our forties was so unbelievable and exciting. We’re both healthy and fit and my doctor wasn’t surprised when I became pregnant, offering his congratulations and support. I was a little nervous about my job b/c there was one woman that had a child at 42 and my coworkers made her feel horrible about being an older mom. Needless to say, after 2 miscarriages, my fiance’ doesn’t want to try again. He said he’s worried about my emotional and physical state if I have another miscarriage. I just feel alone because I want another child, I’m just afraid that with the miscarriages, it may not happen.

I am so sorry to hear about your losses. Please do not give up hope. Stay active, healthy & keep trying.
I turned 40 this year. I married at 37.

We had an 8 week miscarriage in 2011
We had a stillbirth in 2012 at 21 weeks where my cervix opened.
We’ve just had a third miscarriage a few days ago.

The worse thing is I have discovered that no real attention is given to you unless you’ve had 3 miscarriages. Ie no relevant tests are carried out.

I regret not saying that I’ve already had 3m/c that way I would’ve been sent for tests & possibly avoided a 3rd m/c

I have spoken with several doctors (around the world) who have said that when the mother to be is over 35 they prescribe aspirin & progesterone.

My sister & sister in laws younger & older have children. My sister had 2 miscarriages in her 20s then
went on to have 3 healthy children in her 30s.

I feel very very isolated and would love to talk to someone in a similar situation as me.

Since getting pregnant the first time I have put on a considerable amount of weight neglecting myself & I put the latest miscarriage down to this.

If you’d like to chat please email me at ‌lawpsyche@‍hotmail.com (law‌psyche null@null ‍hotmail NULL.com) I live in Guildford UK and want to connect with women in their 40s suffering from
recurrent miscarriages.

Thank you for your inspirational story. I am 45 with 3 children age 19-11, I have a new partner of 3 years who is a little more than 11 years younger. We conceived naturally in November of last year and found out during 11 week screening ultrasound there was no heart beat, after having ultrasound at 8 weeks and seeing baby moving and being told everything incl heartbeat was great and baby was growing well. We were devastated but took it as a sign that this one wasn’t meant to be. We have been trying since a month after D&C and still no luck. I was beginning to accept the fact that we were not going to get pregnant again, until I read your post. I’m not having much luck with the bbt charting so thinking of trying your suggestion of monitoring CM. Was starting to get worried with long than usual cycles and no high temperatures. I’m planning to go for acupuncture next cycle hoping there is baby dust in our near future. Nice to know there are others out there feeling the same way and willing to share their stories and offer support. We are praying daily and believe if it’s in god’s plan for us it will happen. “I’m trying to believe that I will conceive, time will tell”

Congratulations Angels! Your three babies look gorgeous!
And thank you for sharing your story. It is so very heartening and faith-restoring for me, and I’m sure many others in a situation similar to mine – looking to start my family later in life by choice and by circumstance, and looking to do it naturally.
All the best to you and your lovely family!

I’m 32 years old and am looking to donate my eggs for many reasons. One that it would bring great happiness to a family or many families. 2. I am really in need of the money associated with donation which is around 6,000 dollars. But the research suggest Noone wants my eggs because of my age. If anyone has any suggestions or comments please contact me by email. Thanks

Wow wonderful stories . I am 43 and married for 10 years . Right after getting married we learned that my husband suffers from Azoospermia . We were devastated and gave up all hopes …..
But I am really happy for each and every one of you .
Unless you are not in my position , there is always hope to get pregnant . AGE is just few numbers , dont take is serious .

Your story is inspirational and gives me a glimmer of hope. I turned 44 in June and have two beautiful daughters conceived naturally at ages 35 and 37 with no troubles. When my second daughter was born, I made the hormonally fueled and horrible decision to have my tubes tied; the regret was swift and profound. Knowing, as you did, my family didn’t seem complete with two, I finally received my husband’s shared desire for a third child at 44. We spoke to a fertility specialist about reversing my tubal, my OB, and numererous friends about our desires and received a flood of neigh-saying comments from most. I am completely depressed and discouraged, but you have provided just a bit of positive, real, and inspirational hope. Thank you.

I see this is an older blog. I was wondering of the outcome on becoming pregnant with your 4th child? I am 44 and trying with my second husband. My fsh
Level is a 6 tubes clear all test great. Attempting follistrim with time intercourse. Looking for any advice. Thank you so much

I live in a 3rd world country with next to nothing medical facilities but my faith and hope in God that nothing is impossible to them that believe is all that I cling on. I am 52 and my husband is 59!. Your very inspirational story has renewed my hope. Thank you for sharing and God bless. I love you all. Cheers, Glossy

I am so thankfuk that I found this site tonight. I have four older daughters aged 22-14 from my first marriage. I was 20-28 years old when they were conceived. Sixteen months ago I had another daughter conceived naturally with my new husband who is 8 years younger.

I have been exclusively breastfeeding and became pregnant again almost 10 weeks ago. Sadly we found this week that the baby stopped developing this week after seeing a heart beat at 6 weeks and I had a D&C today.

I am now 42 and really want to try again even though I am nervous of the unknown. All of you ladies are giving me hope, thank you.a

Thanks Heather and ladies I am 43, 4 miscarriages, failed IVF and several failed IUI. I can’t wrap my mind around not having my own children someday. When I turned 43 I was really depressed thinking that there was no hope for me conceiving, but reading all of these positive messages I am hopeful and I’m prayerful that I will happen. Thanks again and best wishes to you all.

Dear all, how great to hear such encouraging stories of hope, faith and joy! I am a Geneticist working in a diagnostic lab in Greece (situated writhing a maternity ward…) and most of my patients are couples with infertility problems (who I encourage and make sure they leave my lab with raised hopes and a big smile despite what I am facing… Which they don’t know) I met my husband, an Angel, at 42. Had 2 miscarriages within 9 months. Spent 2013 doing IVF in order to study genetically the embryos before transfer. All were with chromosome abnormalities despite the fact the were great embryologically. Now, at 44.5 we still haven’t given hope! Problem is that husband is abroad so I have to travel for a max of 6 days every month or so but we are used to that kind of life, we are happy that we have been blessed with each other and we are planning in 2 yrs time to adapt a child. In the meantime we will keep trying and my only advice to all of you is that as far as you feel mentally and physically healthy….go for it!!! It seems very few people can sympathize with are views, believes and dreams but never mind! One single piece of advise…. Keep away from stressful situations and negatively thinking people! Good luck to all if us and stay in touch!

I went to a clinic (my age 44) and went to discuss the options to get pregnant if not naturally and naturally, as well.

And of course I did my research too. And the odds were discussed with me as soon as I sat down. I know that for me and maybe other women that you know what you want by this age and are educated enough to the chances to become pregnant. I just know that I probably wasn’t there any more than 15 minutes. From the moment I walked in and sat down I was discouraged by the doctor in his tone and words to me.

The short of it is this:

I was told that my odds at 44 were roughly 2 point something percent or there about; that I may have to consider donor eggs or adoption (as was sent in a letter to me that I did not receive directly but instead this fertility clinic had sent me (from a hosp. setting) to my family dr. and had to read that rather then hear it from the fertility dr. himself, ie. by sitting me down first and having an initial consultation. I had been referred to this dr. by family dr. Anyway, when I finally got to meet with this fertility dr., I was told the same thing as was in that letter that he could have told me before that letter was sent by meeting with in person first.

Anyway, I did get the appt. and while at this appointment the next he said to me was an example of a woman that was 48 and attempting to conceive or something of this nature but it’s what he said following and that was she wanted a lot of ultra sounds etc. and far as he was concerned she was wasting resources that could have better allocated elsewhere given her age!!

When I heard this I was deplored in the sense that this was said to me first off without even having had anything down as far as an exam of me and the fact that I was given the example of the 48 year old woman who was essentially wasting or a waste or resources that could be better utilized elsewhere!! I found this hurtful and offensive to be said to me and what was said of the 48 yr. old woman!! Not to mention discriminatory and distasteful!!

To me a woman can be of any age to seek fertility treatment to whatever options are available to her through our health care and clinics!! So whether I’m 20, 30, 40 or 50 something or what have you it isn’t for me to say other then I felt discriminated against and also when told (to paraphrase), ‘that there has only been maybe 4 births in this given yr. (2013?) from women over 40’, I thought he said.

I then told him that I would consider what was said and did speak up tell him what I didn’t want. I know that I wanted to be treated fairly whether I was 20 or 30 or 40!! And correct if I’m wrong but it would seem to me that it is probably 40 something women and up who are seeking fertility
treatment/options/education to become pregnant and not just women whom are difficulty or considering pregnancy through fertility treatments in their 20’s and 30’s??!!

I don’t want to be discouraged with just statistics and the possibility of poor quality eggs or the ability to carry, etc.!! For all I know, I may be able to have children, I just haven’t met anyone to have one.

I feel encouraged and humbled by the women whom have defied the odds and given birth naturally and with fertility treatment as well!!

Thank you all so much for taking the time to write your stories and especially you Heather for originally setting up this website. I have a friend who is a midwife and she tells me women in their late 40’s are having healthy babies. Where would we be in the world if we all believed the statistics – apparently 70% of statistics are wrong! Or if we allowed our selves to be fear mongered by people. Life needs to be lived. I pray all you ladies who are hoping to have babies do and they will be as happy and healthy as they are loved. Your stories have been uplifting and given me hope too xx

I think its ideal to have children in one’s forties. Women over forty are usually in stable relationships, and are financially capable of taking care of their child. They have wisdom and experience. I’ve learned that the kind of people who judge older parents are usually bitter and deeply unhappy about something that went wrong in their own lives.

Congratulations! I really admire you and wish you the best. It is always easier for people to look at the negative side, but it takes a special kind of person to look over all the odds and keep a positive and optimistic attitude. Blessing for you and your family.

Amazing will power Angel !
While reading your article I was crying with joy !
my husband has 2 children with his x wife in
I am 43 n got married in 2009, since then trying for baby, I had 2 IUI & 2 IVF’ s in 2011 but till now no luck…though after the treatment I developed thyroid and rheumatoid arthritis (early stage)
while trying I feel pain (may be due to age and hormonal changes ) I don’t wish to proceed for another medical treatment.
my stress level,weight is ok.
This emptiness is killing me inside.. I can’t have sound sleep … now at 4 am m searching sites for some help..
If anyone can suggest anything good !!

I conceived naturally at 41 and gave birth at age 42. We used pre-seed lubricant and also I used Clearblue Ovulation Test (with the smiley face) to figure out when I was ovulating. It took us 7 months to conceive.

I am in tears from reading all these wonderful stories. I am 43 and my husband is 45, and we have a 3 year old baby, and have been trying to have another baby for over two years now. I am currently 5 weeks pregnant, but my levels are very low and going up very slow. At five weeks, the count
were only 349. My heart is broken again because doctors do not have much hope, and going for another blood test today. After having two miscarriages this year (and two other miscarriages in the past) and on my way for a fifth miscarriage…. it is just so painful. I have done 4 IUI’s and 3 IVF’s and already thinking of trying again!. I can only have hope and after reading all these wonderful stories, I do not feel alone. Thank you all.

Thanks for such an inspiring story! Very appreciated. I got married 5 yrs ago & hv been TTC..I am 47, and had 2 failed IVFs. My husband & I both would love to conceive (even at our age). I will take your advice to eat healthier & workout..My motto will b “Through faith, I believe I will conceive.” Any other advice??

Don loose hope. If you are a healthy woman with emotional and economic estability with good emotional, social and moral support from family or friends keep having faith.

I met a woman had turned 50 and just had twins naturally!! She tought had menopause had fully arrived and that because of it she was gaining some weight and 6 months into the pregnancyshe discovered her pregnancy. She told me that her doctor said that ichances for pregnancy increised in the late stages of menopause and had had many peri and menoupausal p
Succesfull pregnancies like in the old days were grandmothers had children in mid to late forties.

Your an inspiration!! Just when I was getting down about not having a husband and children…I read about you 🙂 🙂 🙂 I have been through a lot in life (more than most) and my great desire is to have a husband and children. This gave me hope. Thank you as I am 36 now and start to think its not too late.

WOW! So glad you wrote this article. My youngest child is 12. I’m in my late 40’s, husband is 43, and we would love to have another. I never thought seriously about a declining fertility rate until lately.

It’s depressing to google midlife mothers and see nothing but doom and gloom articles.

Neither one of my grandmothers went through menopause till their mid 60’s, so at least the genetics are in my favor. I had no clue that the average women went into menopause in their early 50’s! I do not want to take my ancestral DNA for granted. You never know.

I have relatives who gave birth in their mid 50’s, it was a shock to them, totally unplanned.

I do not want to wait, or have an unexpected pregnancy like my relatives. I’m going to start planning now, and take extra care of myself.

I am 45 years of age. I recently got remarried. But 18 years ago i got my tubes tied. Here’s my problem we both desire to have a baby. I try to stay encourage and pray that God would bless us with a healthy baby boy since he also has 2 girls and i have 1girl and 2 boys from previous marriages.

I will turn 42 in two months time and I will start trying in 1 month from now. I believe so strongly I will have children. I want three children and I am believing God to perfect my heart desires. I am happy to have stumbled upon this amazing site. I wish all trying to conceive the best of luck. God bless!!!

My last period was Nov10,2014 today my my period was due no show i have regular period 25-28 DAYS exact feeling pregant. Quizzie lot of saliva hemmoriods full breast. Light cramping i believe i feel a flutter or two -test should i be concerned. Sleeping like crazy dont wanna do anything ladies i need answers

WOW, thanks so much for your story! I conceived naturally at 44. I am a perfect example of “be careful what you wish for”. I kept saying, “I just want to pregnant before I’m 45”. Well….Was 44 in February and turned 45 in April, hee hee. Now trying to conceive baby number 2 but the body had other ideas and pretty much shut down. So we are using an egg donor with husbands sperm but I’m going to carry. I LOVE the morons in the store that ask me how old my granddaughter is and the look on their faces when I tell them she is mine! I will hopefully do an IVF transfer in mid-february. Good luck everyone!

Thank you! I am uncomfortable sharing with others that I want to have a child. My career is on track and I finally feel like I am in a place that I can give a child a solid home but I am almost 43 and also hear all the negative talk. Thank you so much for sharing!

Hi there ladies. I am 44 and just found out I was pregnant. I had been trying for years to have number seven. I have six girls (I know right ?) I wanted to try just one more time for a boy. I prayed and prayed, pleaded. With God. I take pre-natal vitamins and extra b6. I never went to doctor to test my eggs or ask for advice. I look like I’m thirty and I started to think that if I look thirty how does my body know my eggs are 44 ? I started to take a positive attitude towards the whole thing, got some ovulation tests kits and went from there. I only just found out and I pray everything goes well. Please pray for a safe and healthy delivery for me. I have waited 13 years for this. I will pray for those here who see ttc. It IS possible !!! Keep y’alls head up and stay positive. I think I Am 4 weeks now. Im scared to lose it but I also have faith in God. Too much stress does more harm than anything

I’m so happy to hear all you ladies who conceived after 40. I have a beautiful 2 1/2 yr old daughter which I conceived when I was almost 40 yrs old, i’m 42 now and i’m trying desperately to have another. I was going to a fertility dr, had a bunch of IUI’s, gave myself a 2 mth break and got pregnant on my own. I have a lot of hope now knowing that women are having children older now. I wish all you ladies lots of luck and don’t give up.

Congrats to all you mothers over 40.
I am 45 and would very much like to conceive a child. I have no children of my own. My partner has 3 children and I thought that being with a man who already has children would suffice for my need to have my own as I realize there may be a challenge to conceive at my age, but I only feel very lonely whenever I watch him bond with his youngest and realize that my desire to have my own flesh and blood and feel that love and bond is stronger.
I love his child( the youngest is eight and lives with us) but I realize that I am not his parent and so will never have the bond with him that a mother has with her own.
This only strengthens my desire for my own.
So I have begun all the necessary tests to see if IVF is for me, since time is of the essence.
Please offer me your prayers.
It is so nice to have found this site

Thank you for this blog. I am 45 years old, never had a child and about to be married to my soul mate, much younger than I am. His family has told him repeatedly that if I do get pregnant, our child will have down’s syndrome.

This is awesome. I am 43 but I already have 6 children…. the youngest is 6 and I have the worst baby fever EVER…. I want more but I keep wondering, am I too old… hmmm, maybe I should! Although, my 6 year old refuses to talk about having a younger sibling…she’s so jealous!

Thank you for this blog and thread! I will be 45 yrs old in a couple of months. My boyfriend will be 46 yrs old next month. We found each other late in life and we both want kids. We’re young at heart, keep in shape and look youthful. Aside from the age, I have epilepsy and must be medicated. There have been women on meds who have had healthy babies. Please send good vibes our way. I’m happily sending them yours. It’s nice to be a part of such uplifting and inspirational ladies!

At 46 the mother of 3, a 21yr old 18 yr old and 10yr old…after all these years I’m about to remarry. I have with my mate decided to try naturally, I still menstrate regularly and I’m encouraged by all of these wonderful stories, I had my annual with my pcp and was a surprisingly encouraged to start trying right away. My partner is 13 yrs my junior and a wonderful support I am amazed and grateful for this site..I will keep you’ll posted on our journey. Goodluck to everyone : )

Thank you for this inspiring blog. Can relate to so many of the comments. So nice to see other women in the same place. I am 46 with 4 girls and desperately wanted 1 more years back- our boy. I conceived at 40 but miscarried at 18 weeks. We delivered our little boy and after 5 years I still think of that little boy who would have just turned 5. Have not been able to shake the feeling that ‘someone is missing’ from our family as well. It’s reassuring to know that I’m not alone with these feelings, and also with the continued desire of having a child although a woman in her mid forties. Thank you for all the good advice Heather and all the encouragement from all. God bless you all in your quest of God’s greatest gift!

Hi. I’m 40 and I have learnt that I’m pregnant with my second child. My new partner and I are extremely fit and he looks younger than 61 years. Without trying, I concieved eight days after my iud was removed. The hcg levels are normal and I’m feeling terrific in early pregnancy. I have a son who turns 20 this year and he is equally excited about the prospect of having a brother or sister. Life is interesting and you just never know what waiting around the corner! Tammy

I truly hate your website! You are giving false hope to many 40+ women that they can easily have babies just because you did. I wasted a lot of time here too thinking that I can just take some herbs, upgrade nutrition and voila a baby will come. Well, not so! My advice is: if you are a woman over 40 run (not go) to a really good RE and a good endocrinologist. REs can run important fertility tests, but they can be blinded by and pushing ART a little too much…If you go to an endocrinologist as well, he/she has no stakes in ART on you and he will give you a more objective evaluation/ advice. This is based on my experience.

Hi Terezia,
I’m truly sorry that your attempts to conceive appear to have been unsuccessful.
Please be aware that the site content covers all aspects of the journey of motherhood after 40, including natural and conventional medicines–from healthy lifestyles, to ART, etc. If you explore the blog and other pages of the site content, you will see that these are all addressed. At no time to we suggest that natural conception is possible for every woman, as we are all so unique.
We do, however, like to encourage hope and positive thinking.
Wishing you the best on your journey.

What a lovely story, thank you for sharing. I had 2 girls from my first marriage who are now 21 and 18. I got pregnant with my third child and first son at 41, delivered him at 42. It was a more complicated pregnancy, it followed straight after a miscarriage too. I had gestational diabetes, on off bleeding and a haemorrhage but our perfect beautiful boy was born at 38 weeks after a straight forward delivery. We believe we have been blessed by God. Age is of no importance to him. Our son is 10 months old now and we are just starting to try for another but not stressing over it. If God wants us to have another then we will, if he doesn’t then we’re thankful that we’ve been truly blessed already. I place my trust completely in him, he’s never let me down so far 🙂

I too am greatly encouraged! I didn’t start late in life but I’m just not ready to quit. I have 8 children and 1 Angel. I’m 45 and would love to try for #9. I’ve heard many negative comments from friends and family and oh the stuff I’ve heard from perfect strangers! I answer only to God. Every good gift comes from Him. I’ve used a midwife for the last 5. I regret nothing. If it is to be, it will be. I thought having children over 45 was next to impossible. These stories have changed my thinking. Excited to see what will be. Good luck everyone! enjoy!!

Your story is amazing and gives so much hope. I have three children from a previous marriage and have just suffered a miscarriage at 14 weeks. It has been heartbreaking for both me and my partner. Reading your story has given me positive hope that we will get our dream of a baby. I have been so down and convinced it won’t happen but positive thoughts are my new motto. God willing it will happen. Reading all these posts have been inspirational such amazing stories many thanks.

I got pregnant at 45 naturally and too had a healthy baby boy. He is my first. My husband at the time of conception was 47. He had his sperm checked about 10 years ago and drs said he had very low motility, which I recall is where the sperm don’t move around that much. Anyways, one of my ob/gyn drs called me a “rare bird” but, I’m not so rare because look at all of these comments of women conceiving in their 40’s. For those trying, keep trying and stay positive!

So nice to have found this website. I’ve just turned 35 and have no children. I’ve been in a loving relationship for 3 yrs. We both want children but we both want to make sure we are financially sound. It takes a lot longer these days to do that!
I really feel I will have no problem conceiving. I want to try in the next two years or so. My family is all African and both grandmothers had children into their 50’s! I think diets also play a big role in fertility as well not just age alone. So, seeing women having children later in life was no big deal for me and women in my culture. I more shocked when women are told that fertility starts to decline by age 29! And I’m even more shocked that women fully believe this! My hope to women is to be smart, get educated about your health, body and fertility . There is an abundance of information about fertility outside of traditional western medicine. Doctors aren’t always right about everything there is room for nuance. So to all the women trying and hoping to conceive dammit keep trying! As I’ve gotten older I mean wiser I’ve learnt that life is doing what works for you when it works for you! That is the only way to true happiness. Good luck to all the women out there at whatever age trying to conceive go ahead and be happy and pursue your dreams! God bless, I will keep you all in my prayers.

Thank you for sharing your birth stories and pregnancy journey. It is so encouraging for this first time Mom of 47, who also conceived naturally at 45 and is now trying for a second baby after having a full term healthy pregnancy and daughter the first go round. I love that more and more mature women are choosing Motherhood, no matter the means of conception or adoption.

We had our first little girl at 40. We tried for several years and suffered a miscarriage in the process-which almost destroyed me. Still, we did not give up. I was 39 when we got pregnant. My hubby was 42. My obgyn was very excited for us, but recommended that we see a specialist due to “advanced material age.” I hated going to him as every time we went he had another reason why we should consider aborting our baby. But, we told him that God had blessed us with this baby and we would be happy regardless. We had our precious perfect little girl in March of 2014. She had been a true blessing. For those who are trying, don’t give up!

Thanks for this website and comments. I am 43 and gave birth to our little girl at 42. I am pregnant again and will give birth (if all goes well) at almost 44.
My husband is six years younger. Four doctors told me I had an fsh of 18 and could not conceive without egg donation or simply adopting. We were set to start birth control and egg donation the very next month and I got a positive pregnancy test.
I was doing acupuncture, avoiding all but little carbs and taking a baby aspirin. My acupuncture doctor kept telling me to wait and thought her methods would work. They must have, after only four months. PLEASE don’t always believe what people tell you. I feel healthier than I ever have in my lifetime. If you are still ovulating each month on schedule like I was, this is a very good sign you can still conceive. I am no doctor and I certainly did have a deadline when I knew we needed an alternative, but sometimes doctors are wrong. In my case, nature and healthy eating worked. If someone told me years ago I would meet my soulmate years later, work out each day and put needles in my skin for hormone balancing I would have told them all they were crazy! Well ladies crazy has it’s rewards….I see mine in my baby’s smile each day.

Heather thank you so much for sharing your story. It has really given me hope. I will be 41 in October. I have a 4 yo DD from a previous relationship. My new partner & I would really like more children. My AMH level is undetectable & my FSH is 24. My RE has given me a 1% chance of successful pregnancy with IVF. He actually reconmended DE. I’m really interested to know if you were aware of what your AMH/FSH readings were when you were ttc?

Hi I am so inspired by your story Heather. How beautiful. I am the mom of one at age 45 with one miscarriage and very irregular cycle. We’ve tried for so long .. First was born at 41. I’m also interested in your story as a reporter. Pls contact my email to chat more. Cheers

I’ve been married 4 6 years im 43 my hubby is 44 we been trying since we got married .when people ask us about the baby I just tell them we can’t afford the kids pls God bless us with A beautiful healthy twins

WOW, I so need to read this, thanks for sharing. I to got married at the age of 39, few months after my first child was born. We have tried several times, with no luck, had two miscarriage, got tested everything seems ok. just beat cancer and here we are trying again. I am now 43 years old about to turn 44 in a couple of weeks and I keep wondering…Would I Ever Conceive Again? Your story gives me hope, and if you don’t mind, I’m going to steal your motto. Thanks

I am very healthy. I have one 23 yr old and have every reason to believe I am still ovulating and cycling.. Can I possibly get pregnant naturally? if so, what steps to take now to maximize the possibility?

I am 44 & miscarriaged at 18wks on 30/3/15. I desperately want to fall pregnant again. I’m scared to get my hopes up but there obviously is some people that do still fall pregnant at this age even though most sites are very negative. Thank you to all for your stories

I am so inspired with this story. I will be 46 next month and will try my first pregnancy this year. I know when I go to the OBGYN , they will start telling me to do the egg donor way. But I hope and pray for that miracle that I will conceive naturally. Thank you for all your inspiring stories.I will not give up. God bless you all and I pray that all of you trying to get pregnant will be successful too!

Reading these stories makes me happy and sad. I am 43 – my partner and I were trying this year – he is 51, and went through a vasectomy reversal for me, after having 2 older kids. The stress of the kids along with an illness I had was too much, and we split. Somehow I am comfortable with the split – and my life will be good – but I am grieving not only the loss of the relationship, but my probably last chance to be a mum. I froze eggs when I was younger, but it takes time to form a relationship, find a life-partner and then commit to bringing kids into the world. Not sure that it looks hopeful for me. It makes the relationship split all the harder – and made me cling on to a relationship that was really not right. I am getting my strength and optimism for life back, but its hard.

This news is encouraging to me. I got pregnant naturally at 44 and delivered a healthy baby boy at 45! I am so blessed and lucky. Now I’m 46 and have just found out that I am pregnant again (naturally)!!! I have to say I’m extremely nervous this time as I feel that there is no possible way i could be so lucky again…..there are SO many negative articles about giving birth at my age. I thank you for your positive and helpful input. 🙂

Hello, everybody! I would like to offer some of my own thoughts regarding the after 40+ pregnancies and the doctors’ usual negative attitudes, even towards women after 35 and before 40. These are my own conclusions:

-Probably there is an international line for doctors to “promote” the “impossibily” of healthy and no-problem pregnancies over 40+ for a good cause: the reproduction with the least danger for any diseases and the avoidance of “difficult” pregnancies that might endanger a doctor’s fame in case of a possible problem (misgcarriage etc.) Or for the general health wellness of the population. an example for this – in another gynaecological case- is what a gynaecologist told me once about the pap-test: “we say it is necessary every year but in fact it is neccesary every 1,5 years. Most women tend to forget it and delay it, so we tell every year for reasons of public health”

– Another reason is money: there is a huge industry of assisted fertilization all ovwer the world, just think about it!

– A third reason is money again: how much is a gynaecologist going to make from one or a second birth (that will follow the first in a short time). At least in my country it is a lot of money! The more the pressure the more the gain (and I live in Europe)

– My grandomother gave birth to my father in 44 without any “assistance” other than my grandfather. At that generation, in the villages, women used to have their last child at this age in order to have somebody take care themselves and the family’s property. Almost all women!

– My brother’s – in law mother, two generations after my grandmother (my generation, age 38) gave birth to him at 44 also.

– A friend of mine had her second child after 45 naturally.

That makes three cases in one’s person’s social circle.Don’t you think that’s a lot?

– and a I have another 15 cases of births at 42 naturally and some miscarriages in the ages before 35, the fertile yars that is. I believe that statistics are a relevant thing. Obviously!

I just suffered a miscarriage at 48. Thought I was in menopause. Was only 5 weeks along but we were actually pleasantly surprised I could conceive naturally. So we are going to ttc for the next two years…he’s younger than me at 42. I have 3 girls 26, 19, and 12. They really don’t care about my age or the fact I will be older. And really, my family are the only opinions that matter.

I met my partner (who is 5 years younger than me) at the beginning of 2010 and I turned 40 in the July and found out I was pregnant on the 31st Dec 2010 after 3 month of stopping the pill and just seeing what would happen. Our child was born Sept 2011. I will be 45 in a couple of days. We have been (just seeing what will happen) since Feb but no sign of anything happening yet. My partners daughter is, as we speak, about to give birth and I keep thinking is it wrong to TTC when we’re about to become grandparents? However, despite this, I still would love a brother or sister for my little boy, I hope it’s not too late.

My story is one that that has left me incomplete until I read your stories. l am 48 and have experienced 6 miscarriages and then turned to IVF twice to only hyper stimulated and couldn’t take it any more I was that sick. I am 48 and still want a child more them ever. I would be a amazing mother. Of all the test I’ve been through not one doctor checked to she if I had endometriosis. That’s one of the very first test doctors do when there dealing with infertility. No I’m 48 and have all the signs of severe endometriosis.
But hearing all your positive stories I’m going to try to see is I can get rid of this endometriosis and just maybe god will surprise me with a miracle,

I am so happy to read your article, it gave me hope and a positive frame of mind. I recently got married last April 28 and turned 40 last Aug 13. My husband and I are trying to conceive but till now, no positive news. We have not been to a doctor. Did you consult a doctor immediately? What foods did you include in your diet? Hear from you. God speed!

Hi! I love this story! I conceived my 3rd son naturally at age 42 after having my tubes tied for 19 years! I had reversal surgery July 2012 and gave birth July 2015. I had already turned 43 and my husband 55. Blessings to all of you!!

I am 41 going on 42 in Jan of 2016. I had my tubes tied after my last c-section in 2002. My hubby & I have a blended family. I had 2 girls from my first marriage, they would be the oldest & youngest of our daughters with the middle girl being from my husbands first marriage. We had 1 child together a son in 2002, but we lost him to a tragic accident in 2005. I know long story, but you ladies have given me hope to see if I am a candidate for a tubal reversal….then I will just try and trust God. 🙂

Thank you all. I wish I had found this website in my quest to become a mother after my very easy and natural conception at the age of 37; delivery at the age of 38. I suffered two miscarriages after this. I made my peace with God and yielded to his will. I became pregnant at the age of 42 naturally, had a normal pregnancy, and delivered at 43. She is 10 weeks old. I rejected all genetic testing as it wasn’t a determinant in our decision to carry a child to full term. We wanted to enjoy our pregnancy and not stress over, but rather enjoy the gift of life.
While the doctors were not always positive, I remained positive. After all, we as women are the carriers of the miracle so we have to adjust our minds accordingly, just as Heather did.
As for the positive, so many working women have told me how inspirational I am!
While I have no desire to carry a third, I understand the feeling of someone missing. I pray that my hubby may experience that feeling in the future and God shows us that someone missing.
God bless you all in your journeys to your miracles!

The stories I’ve read are all so inspiring. We had our 1st naturally at age 44…Our beautiful, healthy girl was born at 32wks, 2 lbs/13oz. She will be 2yrs old in March. I had 2 cerclages and was in the hospital on SBR for 3 months – I did everything possible to keep our baby inside to continue growing. She is our miracle! My husband (12 yrs younger) would love to have another child and myself being almost 46, am a bit nervous but, very hopeful God will bless us again naturally. I’m happy to have found this blog and I look forward reading more inspiring stories.

I think it is wonderful. After having my first child at 37 years old, I never thought I would be hearing myself say I want to have another baby and I will be 48 years old in less than a month. I have been divorced for quite some time and I have met my soul mate. He is 45 and has two children and divorced. If I decide to do this, this will be my 3rd pregnancy. I had no problems conceiving my daughter and I am in great shape. I have no health problems. I’ve never had a miscarriage. My first pregnancy I decided to terminate in my early twenties. I hate that my child is an only child and I do wish I would have had a 2nd child when she was younger. My daughter is thrilled regardless to have a sibling no matter what. I find your blog very encouraging. I don’t mention to others what I am thinking of doing and I don’t care what others think. I think your blog is amazing and it gives me a lot of hope and excitement. I’m so glad I found this blog.

Thank you for your story. You bring me hope!! After having a bad first marriage and having a hard time finding mr. Right ( which I did, getting married in June) I now have hope. He has 3 children of his own but is wonderful to have more for me!! I am turning 44 and have never had children but always wanted children. after spending a year for IUIs and no success I’m feeling more inspired then disappointed. Thanks so much for you inspirational story

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful, wonderful story, Heather.
I am 40 and TTC for the first time, I take a natural supplement which is suppose to boost/help fertility and have also started to listen to binaural beats/frequency for fertility, and yoga exercises to boost fertility.
I see some of you are taking about Chinese herbs/medicine, would anyone be able to share the names of the product(s)?